River Swale

River Swale Richmond Reviews

The river swale runs straight through the town and has so much to offer for FREE.

In the summer you can spend a whole day on the banks with a picnic, venture in for a quick dip, or watch the wildlife (it get extremely busy at the weekend or bank holidays).

For those adrenaline junkies throw yourself off the falls (clearly there is a danger here) or just watch the locals and squadies do it. Having done this myself I would recommend it although it took me a good half hour to build up to it! For those looking for something higher there is a bridge downstream on the path to Easby which you will also find locals jumping off, I have not done this as I'm not mad!

Any other season there are many beautiful walks, of varying lengths on both sides of the river taking in the aforementioned waterfalls or wooded area's which line the banks. Both sides lead to Easby Abbey down stream or to Round Howe up stream if you follow them for long enough. Check out www.dalesbus.info/richmond/walks_intro.htm for some ideas

WARNING!! The Swale is reputed to be the fastest river in England, it is also prone to flash flooding, many unsuspecting swimmers have been swept to their deaths over the years due to heavy rainfall in upper Swaledale. Don't go into the river if it's in flood.